Yavapai County Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Yavapai County

Arrest records in Yavapai County are considered public information under Arizona's Public Records Law, Arizona Revised Statutes § 39-121. This statute establishes that public records and other matters in the custody of any officer shall be open to inspection by any person at all times during office hours. Arrest records maintained by the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments within the county are generally accessible to the public with certain exceptions.

It is important to distinguish between arrest records and conviction records. An arrest record documents that an individual was taken into custody by law enforcement on suspicion of criminal activity, while a conviction record indicates that the individual was found guilty of a crime through the judicial process. Under Arizona law, both types of records are generally public, though arrest records that did not lead to conviction may be eligible for sealing or expungement under specific circumstances as outlined in Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-911.

The Arizona Department of Public Safety maintains the central repository for criminal history information in the state, including arrest records from Yavapai County. However, certain information may be redacted from public arrest records, including:

• Social Security numbers
• Medical information
• Victim identifying information
• Information related to ongoing investigations
• Information that would compromise public safety

Law enforcement agencies in Yavapai County follow the Arizona Criminal Justice Information System policies regarding the dissemination of criminal history information, which comply with both state and federal regulations.

What's in Yavapai County Arrest Records

Yavapai County arrest records contain comprehensive information about individuals who have been taken into custody by law enforcement agencies within the county. These records typically include the following categories of information:

Arrestee Identifying Information:

• Full legal name (first, middle, last)
• Aliases or known nicknames
• Date of birth
• Gender
• Race/ethnicity
• Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
• Identifying marks (tattoos, scars, etc.)
• Address at time of arrest
• Photograph (mugshot)
• Fingerprints

Arrest Details:

• Date and time of arrest
• Location of arrest
• Arresting agency
• Arresting officer's name and badge number
• Reason for arrest
• Use of force information (if applicable)

Charge Information:

• Criminal charges filed
• Charge classification (felony, misdemeanor)
• Charge severity (class A, B, C, etc.)
• Statute or ordinance violated
• Charge description

Warrant Information (if applicable):

• Warrant number
• Issuing court
• Date issued
• Type of warrant (arrest, bench, search)

Booking Information:

• Booking number
• Date and time of booking
• Booking facility
• Property inventory
• Medical screening information (non-private)

Bond/Bail Information:

• Bond amount
• Bond type (cash, surety, personal recognizance)
• Bond status (posted, denied)
• Conditions of release

Court Information:

• Court case number
• Assigned court
• Scheduled court appearances
• Judge assigned

Custody Status:

• Current detention status
• Facility of incarceration (if applicable)
• Release date (if applicable)
• Release conditions (if applicable)

Additional Information May Include:

• Prior arrest history
• Probation/parole status at time of arrest
• Immigration holds
• Protective orders
• Gang affiliation (if documented)
• Vehicle information (if relevant to arrest)

The specific content of arrest records may vary depending on the arresting agency and the circumstances of the arrest. All arrest records in Yavapai County are maintained in accordance with Arizona Revised Statutes § 41-1750, which governs the central state repository for criminal justice information.

How To Look Up Arrest Records in Yavapai County in 2026

Members of the public seeking arrest records in Yavapai County may utilize several official channels to obtain this information. The following procedures are currently in place for requesting and accessing arrest records:

1. Submit a public records request to the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office
   • Complete the official Public Records Request Form available on the Sheriff's Office website
   • Provide specific information about the record being requested (name, date of birth, date of arrest)
   • Submit the form in person, by mail, or electronically
   • Pay applicable fees for record retrieval and copying

Yavapai County Sheriff's Office
255 E. Gurley Street
Prescott, AZ 86301
(928) 771-3260
Yavapai County Sheriff's Office

2. Contact the arresting agency directly

   • Determine which law enforcement agency made the arrest (Sheriff's Office, municipal police department)
   • Submit a public records request to that specific agency
   • Follow the agency's established procedures for record requests

3. Visit the Yavapai County Superior Court

   • Court records often contain arrest information for cases that have been filed
   • Use public access terminals at the courthouse to search for records
   • Request assistance from court clerks for record location

Yavapai County Superior Court
120 S. Cortez Street
Prescott, AZ 86303
(928) 771-3312
Yavapai County Superior Court

4. Submit a request to the Arizona Department of Public Safety
   • For comprehensive criminal history information including arrests
   • Complete the Criminal History Records Request form
   • Provide fingerprints if requesting your own record
   • Pay the required fee

Arizona Department of Public Safety
Criminal History Records Unit
P.O. Box 6638
Phoenix, AZ 85005
(602) 223-2222
Arizona Department of Public Safety

When requesting arrest records, requestors should be prepared to provide:

• Full name of the subject
• Date of birth
• Approximate date of arrest
• Case number (if known)
• Requestor's contact information
• Purpose of the request (may be required for certain records)

Processing times vary depending on the agency and the complexity of the request, typically ranging from 5-15 business days under normal circumstances.

How To Find Yavapai County Arrest Records Online

Yavapai County provides several digital resources for accessing arrest records through official online channels. The following online methods are available to the public:

1. Yavapai County Sheriff's Office Inmate Search

   • Visit the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office website
   • Navigate to the "Detention" or "Inmate Information" section
   • Enter the individual's name or booking number in the search field
   • Review current inmate information, including arrest charges and booking date
   • Note that this system only displays currently incarcerated individuals

2. Yavapai County Superior Court Public Access

   • Access the Yavapai County Superior Court Public Access portal
   • Create a user account if required
   • Search by name, case number, or date range
   • Review case information, which often includes arrest details
   • Download available documents related to the case

3. Arizona Judicial Branch Public Access Portal

   • Visit the Arizona Judicial Branch website
   • Select "Public Access to Court Case Information"
   • Choose "Yavapai County" from the jurisdiction menu
   • Search by name or case number
   • Review case information that may include arrest details

4. Arizona Department of Public Safety Online Records Request

   • Access the Arizona Department of Public Safety Records Request portal
   • Select "Criminal History Records"
   • Follow the instructions to submit an online request
   • Pay the required fee using a credit card
   • Receive records electronically when available

When searching for arrest records online, users should be aware of the following limitations:

• Recent arrests may not appear immediately in online systems
• Some information may be redacted in online versions
• Complete arrest records may require a formal records request
• Certain cases under seal or involving juveniles will not be available online
• Online systems may not include older records that have not been digitized

For the most comprehensive and up-to-date arrest information, combining online searches with formal records requests to the appropriate agencies is recommended.

How To Search Yavapai County Arrest Records for Free?

Members of the public have several options to access Yavapai County arrest records without incurring fees. The following free methods are currently available:

1. Yavapai County Sheriff's Office Inmate Lookup

   • The Sheriff's Office maintains a free online inmate search tool
   • This resource provides basic information about currently incarcerated individuals
   • Access is available 24/7 through the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office website
   • Information typically includes name, booking date, charges, and custody status

2. Public Access Terminals at Government Facilities

   • Visit the Yavapai County Superior Court in person
   • Use the public access computer terminals available in the clerk's office
   • Search court cases that may contain arrest information
   • No fee is charged for on-site terminal use

Yavapai County Superior Court
120 S. Cortez Street
Prescott, AZ 86303
(928) 771-3312
Yavapai County Superior Court

3. Local Law Enforcement Agency Websites
   • Municipal police departments within Yavapai County often publish recent arrest logs
   • These are typically updated daily or weekly
   • Information is usually limited to basic arrest details
   • Check the websites of specific police departments such as:

Prescott Police Department
222 S. Marina Street
Prescott, AZ 86303
(928) 777-1900
Prescott Police Department

Cottonwood Police Department
199 S. 6th Street
Cottonwood, AZ 86326
(928) 634-4246
Cottonwood Police Department

4. Arizona Judicial Branch Public Access

   • The state court system provides free online access to case information
   • Visit the Arizona Judicial Branch Public Access portal
   • Search by name or case number
   • Review basic case information at no charge

5. Local Public Libraries

   • Public libraries in Yavapai County often provide free internet access
   • Use library computers to access the online resources mentioned above
   • Library staff may be able to assist with navigating public records websites

While these free options provide access to basic arrest information, they have limitations:

• Information may be less comprehensive than paid record searches
• Historical records may not be available through free resources
• Detailed arrest reports typically require a formal records request with associated fees
• Free resources generally do not provide certified copies of records

For individuals seeking the most comprehensive arrest record information, a formal records request to the appropriate agency may still be necessary, which may involve processing fees as permitted under Arizona Revised Statutes § 39-121.03.

How To Delete Arrest Records in Yavapai County

Arizona law provides specific mechanisms for the sealing or setting aside of arrest records under certain circumstances. It is important to understand the distinction between record sealing (restricting public access) and expungement (complete erasure), as well as the limitations of each process in Yavapai County.

Record Sealing vs. Expungement

Arizona does not offer true expungement (complete erasure of records) but instead provides for:

• Setting aside of convictions under Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-905
• Sealing of arrest records that did not result in conviction under Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-911
• Restoration of civil rights under Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-907

Eligibility for Record Sealing

Arrest records may be eligible for sealing in Yavapai County under the following circumstances:

• The arrest did not result in a conviction
• Charges were dismissed or resulted in a not guilty verdict
• The conviction was vacated or set aside
• The case was resolved through a diversion program
• The statute of limitations has expired without charges being filed

Process for Sealing Arrest Records

1. Determine eligibility

   • Review the specific criteria under Arizona law
   • Consult with an attorney to assess eligibility

2. Obtain necessary documentation

   • Certified copies of court dispositions
   • Arrest records from the arresting agency
   • Case numbers and dates of arrest

3. File a petition with the appropriate court

   • Complete the Petition to Seal Criminal Case Records form
   • File in the court where the case was handled
   • Pay applicable filing fees

Yavapai County Superior Court
120 S. Cortez Street
Prescott, AZ 86303
(928) 771-3312
Yavapai County Superior Court

4. Attend the hearing if required

   • The court may schedule a hearing on the petition
   • Be prepared to explain why sealing is appropriate
   • Provide evidence of rehabilitation if applicable

5. If granted, notify relevant agencies

   • Provide copies of the court order to:
     • Arresting agency
     • Yavapai County Attorney's Office
     • Arizona Department of Public Safety
     • Any other agencies with records of the arrest

Setting Aside Convictions

For cases resulting in conviction, individuals may petition to have the judgment of guilt set aside under Arizona Revised Statutes § 13-905. This process:

• Does not erase the record but adds a notation that the conviction has been set aside
• Releases the person from all penalties and disabilities resulting from the conviction
• Requires completion of all terms of sentence, including probation and payment of fines
• Is not available for certain serious offenses, including dangerous offenses and sex crimes

The application process for setting aside convictions is similar to the record sealing process and is handled through the Yavapai County Superior Court or the municipal court where the case was adjudicated.

What Happens After Arrest in Yavapai County?

The criminal justice process in Yavapai County follows a structured sequence of events from the point of arrest through final disposition. Understanding this process provides context for how arrest records are created and maintained within the county's criminal justice system.

Initial Arrest and Booking

When an individual is arrested in Yavapai County, the following steps typically occur:

1. The arresting officer takes the individual into custody
2. The arrestee is transported to a detention facility
3. A booking process is conducted, including:
   • Photographing (mugshot)
   • Fingerprinting
   • Personal information collection
   • Property inventory
   • Medical screening
4. The arrest is documented in law enforcement records systems

Initial Appearance

Within 24 hours of arrest, the individual appears before a judge for an initial appearance where:

• Charges are formally read
• Constitutional rights are explained
• Bail or release conditions are determined
• A preliminary hearing date is set (for felonies)
• A public defender may be appointed if the defendant qualifies

Charging Decision

The Yavapai County Attorney's Office reviews the case and determines whether to:

• File formal charges
• Decline prosecution
• Refer for diversion program consideration
• Request additional investigation

Preliminary Hearing/Grand Jury (Felonies)

For felony cases, either:

• A preliminary hearing is held where a judge determines if probable cause exists, or
• A grand jury reviews evidence and may issue an indictment

Arraignment

The defendant appears in court to:

• Hear the formal charges
• Enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, no contest)
• Have trial dates set if pleading not guilty

Pre-Trial Proceedings

Before trial, several proceedings may occur:

• Discovery (exchange of evidence)
• Pre-trial motions
• Plea negotiations
• Case management conferences
• Settlement conferences

Trial

If the case proceeds to trial:

• A jury trial or bench trial (judge only) is conducted
• The prosecution presents evidence to prove guilt beyond reasonable doubt
• The defense may present evidence and challenge the prosecution's case
• The jury or judge renders a verdict

Sentencing

If convicted:

• A pre-sentence report may be prepared
• A sentencing hearing is held
• The judge imposes sentence, which may include:
  • Incarceration
  • Probation
  • Fines and restitution
  • Community service
  • Treatment programs

Post-Conviction

After conviction, the defendant may:

• Appeal the conviction or sentence
• File post-conviction relief petitions
• Apply for sentence modification
• Seek to have the conviction set aside after completing the sentence

Throughout this process, records are created and maintained by various agencies including the arresting agency, detention facilities, the Yavapai County Attorney's Office, and the courts. These records collectively form the arrest and criminal case record that becomes part of the public record, subject to the access provisions and limitations discussed in other sections of this document.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Yavapai County?

Arrest records in Yavapai County are maintained according to retention schedules established by Arizona state law and administrative regulations. The Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records oversees the development and implementation of records retention schedules for all government agencies in the state, including law enforcement agencies in Yavapai County.

Statutory Retention Requirements

Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 41-1750, which governs the central state repository for criminal justice information, arrest records are subject to specific retention periods:

• Arrest records resulting in conviction: Maintained permanently in both local agency files and the state central repository
• Arrest records with no conviction: Generally maintained for at least 5 years from the date of arrest
• Juvenile arrest records: Subject to different retention requirements and may be sealed or destroyed when the individual reaches adulthood, depending on the nature of the offense

Agency-Specific Retention Periods

Different agencies within Yavapai County maintain arrest records according to their specific functions:

1. Law Enforcement Agencies (Sheriff's Office and Police Departments)

   • Arrest reports: Minimum of 5 years, permanent for serious offenses
   • Booking records: Minimum of 5 years
   • Fingerprint cards: Permanent retention
   • Photographs (mugshots): Minimum of 5 years, longer for serious offenses

2. Detention Facilities

   • Inmate booking records: Minimum of 7 years after release
   • Custody logs: Minimum of 5 years
   • Inmate classification records: 3 years after release

3. Courts

   • Criminal case files: Permanent for felonies, 5-10 years for misdemeanors
   • Court dockets: Permanent retention
   • Judgment and sentencing records: Permanent retention

4. Prosecutor's Office

   • Case files: Permanent for felonies, 5-10 years for misdemeanors
   • Charging documents: Retention mirrors case file requirements

Central Repository Retention

The Arizona Department of Public Safety maintains the central repository for all criminal history information in the state, including arrest records from Yavapai County. According to the Arizona Criminal Justice Information System regulations:

• Criminal history records are maintained permanently unless specifically ordered expunged or sealed by a court
• Records may be archived but remain retrievable for authorized purposes
• Digital conversion of older paper records is ongoing to ensure long-term preservation

Purpose of Extended Retention

The extended retention of arrest records serves several important public functions:

• Preserves evidence that may be needed for future legal proceedings
• Supports law enforcement investigations of similar crimes
• Provides documentation for background checks authorized by law
• Maintains accountability within the criminal justice system
• Preserves historical records for statistical and research purposes

It is important to note that while records may be maintained for extended periods, access to these records may be restricted based on the outcome of the case, court orders sealing records, or statutory limitations on the use of certain records for specific purposes.

How to Find Mugshots in Yavapai County

What Mugshots Are

Mugshots, also known as booking photographs, are official photographs taken during the booking process following an arrest. These photographs typically include:

• A front-facing (portrait) view of the arrestee
• Sometimes a profile (side) view
• A booking information board or number visible in the image
• Date of booking
• Arresting agency information

Mugshots serve as visual identification records within the criminal justice system and are considered part of the official arrest record.

Where Mugshots Are Maintained

In Yavapai County, mugshots are primarily maintained by:

1. Yavapai County Sheriff's Office
   • As the operator of the county detention facilities
   • In both digital and physical formats
   • Linked to booking records in jail management systems

Yavapai County Sheriff's Office
255 E. Gurley Street
Prescott, AZ 86301
(928) 771-3260
Yavapai County Sheriff's Office

2. Municipal Police Departments

   • For arrests processed through city jails before transfer to county facilities
   • As part of arrest report files

3. Arizona Department of Public Safety

   • In the state's central criminal history repository
   • For serious offenses and when submitted by local agencies

Finding Mugshots

Members of the public seeking mugshots in Yavapai County may use the following methods:

1. Submit a public records request

   • File a formal request with the arresting agency or Sheriff's Office
   • Complete the agency's public records request form
   • Provide specific information about the arrest (name, date, charges)
   • Pay any applicable fees for record retrieval and copying

2. Visit the detention facility

   • Inquire at the records division of the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office
   • Provide identifying information about the arrestee
   • Complete any required forms for record requests

3. Contact the arresting agency

   • Determine which law enforcement agency made the arrest
   • Submit a records request directly to that agency
   • Follow their specific procedures for obtaining booking photos

Can Mugshots Be Found Online

The availability of mugshots online through official channels in Yavapai County is limited:

• The Yavapai County Sheriff's Office does not currently publish a comprehensive online mugshot database
• Recent booking information may be available through the inmate lookup feature on the Sheriff's Office website, but this typically does not include the actual mugshot images
• Some municipal police departments may publish recent arrest information on their websites, occasionally including mugshots

Private websites that collect and publish mugshots do exist, but these are not official government resources and may contain outdated or inaccurate information. The Yavapai County Sheriff's Office does not endorse or contribute to these third-party websites.

Obtaining Mugshots Officially

The most reliable method to obtain an official mugshot is through a formal public records request:

1. Submit a written request to the Yavapai County Sheriff's Office Records Division
2. Include the full name of the individual, date of birth, and approximate date of arrest
3. Specify that you are requesting the booking photograph
4. Provide your contact information and preferred method of receiving the record
5. Pay any applicable fees as determined by the agency

Restrictions on Mugshot Access

Access to mugshots may be restricted under certain circumstances:

• Juvenile arrest records and mugshots are generally not public records
• Records that have been sealed by court order are not accessible
• Ongoing investigations may result in temporary restrictions
• Privacy protections may apply to certain types of cases
• Recent legislation in Arizona has placed additional restrictions on the commercial use of mugshots

Requestors should be aware that while mugshots are generally considered public records, their use and distribution may be subject to legal limitations, particularly for commercial purposes.

Lookup Arrest Records in Yavapai County